'Canes send Samsonov to Florida for Allen

The deal, announced minutes before Monday's NHL trading deadline, adds toughness to the Hurricanes' defense and gives the Panthers a veteran scorer.

The 30-year-old Allen led the Panthers with 83 hits and blocked 76 shots and also has four goals and eight assists in 53 games. The 32-year-old Samsonov has 10 goals and 16 assists in 58 games with Carolina.

Allen is making $3.1 million this year and is signed through the 2011-12 season. Samsonov makes $2.8 million and will be an unrestricted free agent this summer.

At least Samsonov won't have to travel to join his new team: the Panthers visit the Hurricanes on Tuesday night.